Iconic James Bond cars to auction at Bonhams

A one owner 1962 'barn find' DB4 Aston Martin used as a 'test mule' by James Bond special effects designers is to go up for auction at Bonhams Aston Martin car sale at the Aston Martin Works Service, Newport Pagnell on 22nd May 2010 - the only auction devoted entirely to this iconic marquee.

An ex-factory demonstrator, this 'barn find' DB4 was built for press tycoon Max Aitken (1st Baron Beaverbrook) and was purchased in December 1963 by the current vendor.

The Aston was a regular sight at Pinewood Studios where its owner worked as a special effects designer, and served as a 'test mule' during preparatory work for the first James Bond movie, 'Goldfinger', being measured for the various gadgets - ejector seat, machine guns, etc - that would feature on the silver DB5 driven by Sean Connery as Bond in the film.

Somewhat annoyed by the delayed delivery of the DB5s from the factory, Bond franchise producer Cubby Broccoli once turned to the DB4's owner and said, "Why don't we just use your car and spray it silver?"

In 1974 the car was consigned to a garage where it has remained ever since.

Interesting modifications to the vehicle include a special factory-fitted clutch with lighter 'push', an Icelert, an engine vacuum gauge and a thermostatically activated overheating alert.

It is estimated to fetch £40,000-50,000.

A 1976 Aston Martin V8 Coupé adapted with numerous components from the process unit used during the filming of the 007 epic 'The Living Daylights' is also on offer at Bonhams auction, and is estimated to fetch £40,000-60,000.

James Bond memorabilia continues to grow in stature and has been a sound collectibles investment for many. You can see the top 5 pieces of James Bond memorabilia here

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